Bizarre Paul Mitchell comment sparks debate after big interview - Who is he referring to?

Newcastle United sporting director Paul Mitchell has sparked debate amongst fans after suggesting we have overpaid for players in the last few years and will be aiming to avoid a similar feat during his tenure.

These quotes come after Newcastle failed to secure the signing of Marc Guehi for around £70m, a fee which many supporters believed to be a fair bit above his value, even after his impressive performances at the Euros.

Of course, Newcastle did not bring in the England international, but that was more to do with the fact Crystal Palace had already sold Joachim Andersen and suffered an injury to one of their other centre back options.

Despite bringing in some gems since the PIF takeover, Mitchell claims that Newcastle perhaps have a history of overpaying for players, and some fans believe they know who he is talking about.

Mitchell said: “Is there a point of value for every single player and did, maybe, this football club need to draw a line in the sand of ‘we’re not going to overpay?’

“Looking at the players we have signed – and we’ve signed some really good players – could we say that some of those players, potentially, cost more money than they should have done in the market at that current context? You probably could have that argument and discussion.

“For this club to come out and say actually, we really liked this player and thought he could have brought benefit to this squad, but [ask] is it at any cost? Is it at financial risk to the organisation and our growth and our plan?

"I don't think we should do that (overpay). That's a personal choice. Others might have a different opinion on that but I do take that part of my job seriously.

“Would it have been easier to sit in front of you all with hallmark signings that cost a load of money? Of course it would. But ultimately have them at the detriment to Newcastle's ability to grow and high strategic ambitions for Paul Mitchell's glorification - that's not the job I'm paid to do. I'm paid to do the job in the short, medium and the long term."

So, who is he referring to when it comes to post-takeover deals where we've overpaid?

Harvey Barnes has been suggested with a fee of £38m for a backup left wing option, though a player with double figures in goals and assists in the Premier League will always cost a fair amount.

Sandro Tonali for £55m and Lewis Hall for £28m are two others who have been bought despite being relatively unproven in England. But, again, given their age and potential, it's the going rate for top young talent.